By John Dike, Osogbo
Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has donated ₦100 million and a brand-new Toyota Hilux vehicle to support the operations of the Iru Ekun Security Network, a community-based security initiative established by Yoruba Nation campaigner, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.
The donation was announced on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by Sunday Igboho and members of the Iru Ekun Security Network to the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife, where the monarch reiterated the need for collective action in addressing the growing security challenges confronting communities across Yorubaland.
The Ooni, who is the Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), described the initiative as a timely intervention aimed at complementing existing security structures in protecting lives and property across the South-West.
According to a statement issued by the Senior Media Officer at the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, on behalf of the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Otunba Moses Olafare, the monarch praised Sunday Igboho for what he described as his courage, resilience and unwavering commitment to the security and welfare of the Yoruba people.
The revered monarch said genuine leadership is demonstrated through selfless service and practical contributions to society, stressing that security remains the bedrock upon which peace, development and prosperity are built.
He noted that the financial support and operational vehicle were not merely donations but symbols of his commitment to initiatives that promote communal harmony, peace and the protection of innocent lives.
“I commend Chief Sunday Igboho for taking a bold step towards strengthening community security. Protecting our people is a collective responsibility that transcends political, religious and ideological differences. Every initiative genuinely designed to preserve lives and maintain peace deserves encouragement and support,” the Ooni said.
He urged prominent Yoruba sons and daughters, traditional rulers, traditionalists, community leaders, business executives, professionals and other stakeholders at home and in the diaspora to support the Iru Ekun Security Network in its efforts to improve community safety.
The monarch further described Sunday Igboho as a courageous patriot whose contributions to the protection of Yoruba communities would remain part of history.
“Our strength lies in our unity. When we speak with one voice and work together, no force can undermine the peace and progress of Yorubaland. This is the time for all lovers of Yoruba culture and heritage to unite for a common purpose,” he added.
Responding, Sunday Igboho expressed profound appreciation to the Ooni for the financial support, fatherly encouragement and royal blessings extended to the security outfit.
He described the Ooni as a unifying figure whose humility, wisdom and commitment to the progress of the Yoruba race continue to inspire millions across the world.
“The Ooni is the father of all Yoruba people worldwide. He is God’s gift to our race. His love for the Yoruba nation, humility and kindness distinguish him among traditional rulers. I have come to receive his royal blessings as we continue our mission of protecting our people,” Igboho stated.
He explained that the visit also provided an opportunity to brief the monarch on the progress made by the Iru Ekun Security Network since its establishment while seeking his continued guidance, prayers and endorsement.
Igboho also disclosed plans to convene a security summit that would bring together traditional rulers from across Yorubaland to deliberate on practical and lasting solutions to the security challenges facing the region.
According to him, the summit, subject to the approval and blessings of the Ooni, is expected to hold at the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife, regarded as the ancestral and spiritual headquarters of the Yoruba people.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Iru Ekun Security Network to operating within the provisions of the law while collaborating with relevant security agencies, traditional institutions and local communities in intelligence gathering, crime prevention and community policing.
The development comes amid renewed calls for stronger community participation in tackling insecurity, with traditional institutions increasingly playing active roles in promoting peace, protecting lives and supporting lawful security initiatives across the South-West.
